Deciding if a first look is for you & your partner

Pros

1. DOING A FIRST LOOK WILL IMPACT YOUR TIMELINE

If you decide to do a first look, you will need to get ready a bit earlier, however, taking family & wedding party photos before the ceremony (instead of between the ceremony & the reception) allows you to have increased time for these photos, and decreased stress. You will then have more time to spend on your couple portraits, and be able to connect with your guests more quickly at the reception.

2. Doing a first look will allow you to spend more time together on your wedding day

This day is all about the two of you, and surprisingly a lot of couples spend most of the day apart from each other. Having a first look will allow you to have more time with each other and calm your nerves before stepping into your ceremony.

3. DOING A FIRST LOOK WILL allow you to have a QUIET,  intimate moment with each other

Some of the sweetest moments of the day occur during a first look with the couple. It allows you to embrace each other, and share this beautiful moment privately, rather than in front of a crowd with everyone else watching you. 

Cons

1. NOT DOING A FIRST LOOK WILL MEAN You don’t get the big reveal moment at the ceremony 

Some people love the big reveal at the ceremony & being able to witness the couple see their partner for the first time. If that’s something you want, the first look might not be for you. But, I have heard that walking down the aisle is still special for the couple, even with a first look prior. 

2. NOT DOING A FIRST LOOK WILL give you more time to get ready in the morning

If you choose to not do a first look, you don’t have to worry about squeezing in extra photos before the ceremony such as first look, family, bridal party etc. Although, just because you do a first look does not mean you are obligated to taking family & wedding party photos before the ceremony. It just allows you to capture those photos before, rather than after.

overall, your wedding day is you and your partner’s day, not anyone else’s. DO WHAT IS BEST FOR YOU AND WHAT YOU AND YOUR PARTNER WANT, NOT WHAT EVERYONE THINKS IS BEST. IF YOU WANT TO STAY TRADITIONAL, DO THAT! IF YOU WANT TO SEE EACH OTHER BEFORE WALKING DOWN THE AISLE, SAY NO MORE! THIS DAY IS ALL ABOUT YOU, AND SHOULD REFLECT THAT. Don’t let “Aunt Karen’s” opinion get in your way of doing what makes you happiest.